The eastern slope..

Just another manic Monday—internally manic, at least. I’d say I “worked like a dog,” except my dog napped all day next to my desk. His excitement was my relief as the two of us finally headed up Beech Hill.

Field.

We had a little snow early, but the sun melted most of it by the time we started up the open trail about the time the sun slipped down toward the Rockville Ridge. The half-moon hung high overhead. This side of the moon, a loose flock of robins flew over, southbound—as if that was gonna help. The temperature was a few degrees below freezing, but the wind was high. At the summit, we met a fellow who commented something about how at least there were two of us who were smart enough to appreciate an afternoon like this on a high place like that. Makes you feel alive.

The light was red, the hike was swift, the footing only slightly treacherous. And tonight, above, shone the moon and planets and Orion and bright Sirius—the dog star.

Beech Hill List
Beginning at 4:15 p.m., I hiked the open trail.

1. American robin

Elsewhere

2. Tufted titmouse
3. American crow
4. Herring gull

Hills.